GP Access - MRI Lumbar Spine Pathway

• Routine e-referral with completed MRI safety questions
  • Waiting time as per current routine radiology examination
  • Queries regarding a request or safety questions - please call 028 3756 3795
    or General Enquiries - 028 3756 1925
  • All referrals will be vetted by a Consultant Radiologist
• Laterality and dermatomal distribution of symptoms must be stated

• Radiculopathy (pain radiating below the knee)
• Persisting for greater than 6 weeks
• Failed conservative medical therapy, including
  • Analgesics
  • Physiotherapy
  • Anti-neuropathics

Exclusions 

• Suspected acute cauda equina syndrome or spinal cord compression
  • Incontinence
  • Neurological gait disturbance
  • Saddle anaesthesia
    • Immediate Emergency Department referral

• Low back pain with adverse (red flag) symptoms
  • Progressive motor loss or widespread neurological deficit
  • Sphincter or gait disturbance
  • Saddle anaesthesia
  • Previous carcinoma, systemically unwell, weight loss, HIV, IV drug abuse
    • Potential malignancy or discitis
  • Red Flag Referral Service

• Suspected osteoporotic fracture
  • Radiographs

• Suspected inflammatory spondyloarthropathy
  • Morning stiffness
  • Other joints affected
  • History of iritis
    • Rheumatology referral

• Low back pain in the absence of neurology or red flags
  • Consider Orthopaedic ICATS referral